The Longhorns have averaged 48 points per game through the first two weeks, ranking 12th in the FBS, and averaged 548 yards per game, 15th in the FBS, despite instability at quarterback.

Freshman Sam Ehlinger started in last Saturday's win over San Jose State, while sophomore Shane Buechele, who started in the season opener, was out with a sore shoulder. Herman has not revealed which passer will be behind center against the Trojans. Buechele, who also started last season, is not guaranteed to start even if healthy, Herman said.

Herman's reputation as a play-caller took off in 2014 when he helped Ohio State win the first College Football Playoff with third-string quarterback Cardale Jones starting the final three games. Herman, then the Buckeyes' offensive coordinator, took over at Houston after the season.

"You could tell he had his jaw set right," Helton said. "He was coming in there to win that game, and he had a mental focus that was truly special."

Since a loss at Utah in his first career start, Darnold has directed USC to wins over four ranked teams during its current 11-game winning streak.

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USC's road opener at Cal on Sept. 23 will kick off at 12:30 p.m. and air on ABC, ESPN or ESPN2, it was announced Monday. The Trojans visit Washington State on a Friday night six days later. ... Helton said USC was a "little handsy" against Stanford. The Trojans were penalized eight times for 90 yards.